*This Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge at New York’s LaGuardia Airport was reviewed when it was still a United (Airlines) Club. Before that it had been a Continental Presidents Club. As of mid-2013, the seating and layout remain largely the same although food and drink options are likely different. Priority Pass access remains as stated in the “How I got in/Strategies” section below.

If there were ever an argument for overhead flourecent lighting…this would be it.

Notes: As airlines merge it’s hard to keep up with who has what and where, but at post time this is a Continental Presidents Club. Continental Airlines merger with United is just about complete but it’s unclear what the fate of this club location will be. For now it’s a dated, cave-dark vampire hideaway with booze and okay coffee. With few places to sit and not many places to recharge the laptop or phone, I’d easily take my pre-flight business down the hall to the legacy United Red Carpet Club that has better views, more space, more light, more outlets and a far better layout.

Wi-Fi: Yes/Complimentary.

Service: Check in was friendly and appeared to have a good rapport with Continental regulars. The bartender appeared to like to spend time gossiping at the front desk while keeping a wine-thirsty customer staring at the empty bar before he noticed and finally returned.

Convenience to gate: If you’re flying Continental or anything from Concourse A, it’s not too hard to get to your gate. The only exception being that you still have to get through security. Allow at least an extra 20 minutes before boarding time.

How I got in/Strategies:Priority Pass. If you’re not particularly loyal to a specific airline or don’t travel enough to use airport club rooms, I highly recommend joining. Presidents Club and United Red Carpet Club members have full access and reciprocal club access is granted between United/Continental and US Airways Clubs.

Rating: 1.5 hops (of 5)

Click on "More Details" below to get in using Priority Pass (support modhop):